Investors and Traders Express Confidence in Tech, Crypto, and AI Industries

The financial landscape has experienced its fair share of turbulence at the start of this year, from trade tariffs to inflation. A recent survey conducted by FCA-regulated fintech and financial services provider Trade Nation sheds light on the sentiments of traders and investors. Despite the economic challenges, the study revealed that a significant 80% of respondents remain confident in their portfolios for the upcoming year.

When delving into the level of confidence among traders and investors, the survey found that most individuals have a positive outlook on their 2025 portfolios. A striking 80% expressed confidence in achieving a positive return by the end of the year. Of this group, 34% strongly agreed with the likelihood of positive returns, while 46% somewhat agreed. Interestingly, younger traders and investors, particularly in the 24-34 age bracket, showed the highest levels of optimism, with 88% feeling positive. In contrast, only 66% of individuals aged 65 and above shared the same level of confidence in their portfolios.

Despite the prevailing optimism, concerns linger among investors and traders regarding potential challenges in the market. The survey highlighted several key worries, including fears of an economic downturn or recession, which troubled 53% of the respondents. Additionally, concerns about inflation (46%), market manipulation and volatility (40%), geopolitical instability (36%), interest rate fluctuations (36%), and the impact of AI and automation on industries (19%) were also prominent among respondents. Furthermore, over half (51%) of the surveyed individuals agreed that AI and robo-advisors may eventually outperform human investors.

Survey participants were also asked to identify the industries in which they felt the most confident. Technological innovation emerged as a top contender, with 36% of respondents expressing confidence in technology investments for the year. Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies closely followed, garnering positive sentiments from 32% of traders and investors. Other sectors that instilled confidence included AI and Automation (31%), Real Estate and Property (23%), Renewable Energy (21%), and Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, and Biotech (19%).

In terms of factors influencing investment decisions, the potential for profit understandably topped the list, with 57% of respondents citing it as a significant consideration. Market trends and company financial stability were tied for second place at 56%. Additional factors influencing investment decisions included company ethics and sustainability (30%) and recommendations from social media (19%).

Overall, the survey underscores the resilience and confidence of traders and investors in the face of economic headwinds, while also shedding light on their key concerns, preferred industries, and decision-making influences in the investment landscape.